Modern Bistros in Paris – Part 1

The term bistro has lost its real definition in recent times, most people around the world regard a bistro as a small informal restaurant serving a particular nation’s classic dishes. So there have sprung up French, Italian, Mexican and all sorts of different types of bistros all over the world. But the original bistros were French and from Paris, and outside France some of their dishes have been largely forgotten. In this blog we look at modern bistros that exist today in Paris where you can find authentic Parisian bistro food, like tarte tatin and coq au vin. Featured in this blog are some outstanding restaurants that are located in Paris that serve authentic bistro classic dishes.

Josephine Chez Dumonet

Josephine Chez Dumonet

A really exceptional restaurant, that takes you back to pre-war Paris. Everything about the décor in Josephine Chez Dumonet reminds you of another time and another place. Strolling through the doors you are transported back to the art-nouveau period. The food served is old-fashioned bistro fare, that adheres to traditional cooking from the old bistro days in Paris. But if you want to taste authentic slow cooked dishes such as, boeuf bourguignon, millefeuille of pigeon or foie gras stuffed mushrooms, then this is the place.

A la Biche au Bois

Situated in a working part of town this bistro is normally crammed with locals who know their food. So, if you fancy some really authentic Parisian bistro dishes then A la Biche au Bois will satisfy your palette. As a good bistro should be the food is reasonable priced and rustic, simple rural dishes such as our mayonnaise, boeuf bourguignon, and hearty cassoulet are served regularly. Expect dishes at A la Biche au Bois to be seasonal, and during the game season the dishes are particularly fantastic and absolutely classic.

Le Baratin

Le Baratin

Situated in the bohemian Belleville quarter is a great rustic Bistro called Le Baratin. The food at this rather basic restaurant is created from the head of the owner Raquel Carena who was born in Argentina. So, the food is an eclectic mixture of French, South American, Spanish and North African. Delicious dishes such as braised ox cheeks, tuna tartare is accompanied by biodynamic wine which is organic. And do not be surprised to see great Parisian chef’s dining as it is a cool place to hang out.

Les Bistronomes

Quite a charming building with pretty wallpaper and an exposed beamed ceiling it is superbly located right next to the Palais Royal. The chef is classically trained and he brings these influences into his rustic bistro food. Chicken Supreme with basmati rice and Duck Breast stuffed with foie gras are recent dishes on the menu. Although the dishes are technically perfect and have some luxury ingredients, the prices are more than acceptable. The service is also friendly but organized and when all these factors are put together it is hardly surprising that Les Bistronomes is highly popular. These great new modern bistros are part of the great New Bistro movement that has been hitting France over the past twenty years. In part two we look at even more gastronomic delights of other great bistros of Paris.